REGINA – An independent observer will be called in to an RPS investigation regarding an in-custody death. The observer - appointed by Saskatchewan Justice - will oversee the investigation by police and the Saskatchewan Coroner's Service.
In the early morning hours of Dec. 30, 2022, police were called to a residence on the 2200 block of Smith Street. They were going to apprehend an uninvited guest at the residence, who was also wanted on warrants.
“Police officers went to the residence, but could not summon anyone to the door - all was quiet inside,” said RPS in a media release. “Minutes later, those officers attended to a nearby address in the 2200 block of 14th Avenue, where they located a male with a weapon.”
While circumstances surrounding the death have yet to be thoroughly investigated, general facts indicate a weapon was discharged and the suspect fell to the floor.
“There were two police officers at the scene when this occurred, but it is believed there was no physical contact between police and the suspect, nor did the officers discharge their firearms,” RPS noted. “The officers requested EMS and other units. EMS confirmed the male subject was deceased. Police confirmed the safety of other residents of the building and secured the scene.”
The man who died was identified as the person sought in the initial call for service. His name will not be released at this time.
“As police were at the scene with the intention of arresting the adult male, this incident will be investigated as an ‘in-custody death’,” RPS confirmed.
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